Thread: Cobus Calitz

Gidday Team. For those who had the absolute sheer privilege of knowing Cobus like myself this is sad news however Cancers a bitch. For me Cobus was my go to Gunsmith, a dear friend and someone who will be missed dearly. A master stock maker, a very peaceful person who never said a bad word about anyone and when it comes to down to earth people. Well he would be the definition of down to earth. A man who loved his 7mms with his favorite being the 7x64.
I've copied the below from SSANZ as It does him the respect he and his family deserve.

In Memory of Cobus Calitz (22 July 1955 – 7 May 2025)

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Cobus Calitz, The owner operator gunsmith from GunTechNZ—a respected figure in our shooting community and a genuinely good man.

Cobus was a quiet, capable presence—never one to boast, but always ready to get stuck into any project thrown his way. Well known across both the North and South Islands for his work as a gunsmith, he built strong relationships through his craft, helping countless shooters, hunters, and collectors over the years.

Beyond the bench, Cobus had a lifelong interest in martial arts. Calm and measured by nature, he still managed to surprise many with his background in self-defense and his willingness to introduce others to martial arts as a way to build confidence, fitness, and peace of mind.

We offer our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Marelize. The team at SSANZ wishes her strength and comfort in the days ahead.

Cobus will be missed not just for what he did, but for the way he carried himself—with integrity, kindness, and quiet dedication.

We are reaching a point in time where the big names and contributors of our sport are starting to pass. it's up to us to pass the lantern on to the newer generation , to share the information we have collectively gathered over lifetimes. Cobus Calitz was a shining example of this.

Rest easy, mate - You will not be soon forgotten.